Become a Leader in Environmental Stewardship: District Conservationist with the NRCS
Are you looking for a career where your work directly shapes the future of our planet? The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is seeking motivated professionals for the role of District Conservationist. This position is perfect for those who want to blend technical agricultural expertise with leadership and community engagement.
Job Responsibilities
As a District Conservationist, you will:
- Manage and implement soil and water conservation plans.
- Lead a team of federal employees and serve as a liaison between state and district partners.
- Provide technical and financial assistance to help landowners meet conservation goals.
- Oversee the administration of Farm Bill programs.
- Conduct fieldwork to design and certify conservation systems.
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must meet specific educational and experience criteria:
| Requirement Type | Specification |
|---|---|
| Education | Degree in soil conservation or related agricultural discipline |
| Experience (GS-11) | One year specialized experience equivalent to GS-09 |
| Experience (GS-12) | One year specialized experience equivalent to GS-11 |
| Certification | Must obtain Conservation Planning Certification |
Salary Overview
The GS-11 to GS-12 pay scale offers a competitive salary range of $74,678 to $121,551 per year, depending on location and experience. Benefits include comprehensive healthcare, retirement planning, and paid leave.
Application Tips
- Focus on your impact: When describing your experience, emphasize the specific results you achieved, such as acres improved or erosion reduced.
- Mind the limit: Your resume must be two pages or less. Every word counts!
- Assessments matter: Don't delay on the USA Hire assessment; it is a critical gatekeeper for the selection process.
A career with the NRCS is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the health of our nation's working lands. Apply today to lead, serve, and protect our natural resources.
Why This Soil Conservationist (District Conservationist) Job Matters
Make a lasting impact on the land you love—join the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service as a District Conservationist.
Soil Conservationist (District Conservationist) Job Overview
The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is seeking a dedicated professional to serve as a District Conservationist. This supervisory role involves leading comprehensive natural resource conservation programs, collaborating with local landowners, and managing a team of professionals to implement sustainable land-use solutions. You will be at the forefront of protecting agricultural resources, water quality, and wildlife habitats while overseeing federal conservation initiatives at the local level.
Requirements for Soil Conservationist (District Conservationist)
- United States Citizenship or National status.
- Registration with the Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/1959).
- Successful completion of a background investigation and fingerprint check.
- Possession of a valid state motor vehicle operator's license.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Conservation Planning Certification.
- Completion of a 1-year probationary period.
- Successful completion of the E-Verify employment verification check.
Preferred Qualifications for Soil Conservationist (District Conservationist)
- Advanced academic background in soil science, agronomy, or natural resource management.
- Experience analyzing workloads and developing annual business or work plans.
- Proven ability to manage and lead diverse teams in a field-office setting.
- Deep understanding of Farm Bill programs and financial assistance administration.
- Technical proficiency in interpreting soil data and implementing conservation designs.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and step increases.
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- ✓Retirement programs including the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Paid federal holidays and generous annual/sick leave accrual.
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives.
- ✓Opportunities for telework and professional development.
💡 How to Apply Soil Conservationist (District Conservationist) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Soil Conservationist (District Conservationist) Job
- Carefully review the entire job announcement.
- Prepare a targeted resume (maximum two pages).
- Click the Apply Online button to initiate the process.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Upload all required supporting documents, such as transcripts and SF-50s.
- Submit your application before 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
- Monitor your email for a notification regarding the USA Hire assessment.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly under two pages to avoid immediate disqualification.
- Ensure your transcripts clearly show course titles, credits, and grades.
- Complete the USA Hire assessment as soon as you receive the link.
- Use the 'Track this application' feature in USAJOBS to monitor your status.
- Highlight your direct experience with soil and water conservation practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I submit an unofficial transcript?
Yes, unofficial transcripts are accepted during the initial application phase; however, official transcripts will be required upon selection.
Is this a remote position?
No, this position is not fully remote. It requires fieldwork, though it may be eligible for limited telework depending on agency policy.
Are travel or relocation incentives available?
Recruitment or relocation incentives may be authorized for qualified candidates at the agency's discretion.
Job from Natural Resources Conservation Service
The NRCS is a vital component of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Our mission is to "help people help the land." We partner with farmers, ranchers, and forest managers to implement sustainable practices that improve soil health, protect water quality, and restore wildlife habitats. With a presence in every county in the U.S., we are the leading agency in private lands conservation.